EP REVIEW: Prototype – Crashface

CRASHFACE mark a new chapter as a band with their new EP Prototype, which follows on from 2021’s Heavy Infectious. The punk duo – consisting of Charlie Hinton and Otto Bulfour – have gained praise from the likes of Metal Hammer and Rock Sound. Described as “a test-dummy” by the band, who “threw stuff at the wall to see what sticks”, Prototype could be set to put CRASHFACE even more noticeably on the map.

Scream kicks off the EP, and it is unlike any punk song that we’ve heard before. CRASHFACE have an ace up their sleeve, which is that they have included electronic elements into punk. It works a treat, although there is a build-up that does not completely drop, leaving a bit to be desired. Thankfully, that is rectified by the end of the song. Other than that, the energy is radiant and the song is fun and unique.

Lovedoom emphasises the electronic elements even more, incorporating some distorted vocals in. Crucially, these do not sound out of place, and in fact the electronic parts of the music are superbly mixed together, especially during the bridge. This shows that punk is not just limited to one sound.

This EP also benefits from having six songs, as it gives the duo enough time to showcase what they’ve got. No Hands is a bit on the heavier side instrument wise, but it also has some rap thrown in for good measure. This works surprisingly well, as the rap builds up to a superb chorus.

In fact, despite all the genre mix ups, this EP is cohesive. No two songs sound the same, allowing not only for experimentation, but also for accessibility. This EP is could easily please everyone. If you’re into hardcore, there are songs like Goosebumps, and if you like something a little more mellow, there is Flakjacket, which isn’t acoustic, but it tones things down a bit to be a mid-tempo punk song. Steel pulls out all the punches as the final track. It has a bit of everything: electronic breakdowns, distorted vocals and a whole lot of energy. The instruments – which are fantastic throughout the EP  – are at the top their game here, and they really drive the song along.

Overall, if you are looking for an infectious, high-energy EP, then Prototype is for you. They might have thrown everything at the wall to see what stuck, but CRASHFACE show that what stuck was clearly brilliance, as this EP is the result. Full of confidence, fun, and some unexpected twists, this is something special. Whilst the first song does have a bit of a hesitancy to drop the beat, the rest of the songs are slick, and the production means that each song stands out whilst simultaneously fitting in with each other. Prototype is one of the best EPs of the year so far, and CRASHFACE are definitely a name to watch.

Rating: 9/10

Prototype is out now via self-release.

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